Featured:
Allergies
Grilling Guide
eHow Now Blog

What Is a Foam Cell?

Atherosclerosis is a cardiovascular condition that can lead to hardening and narrowing of the arteries. Atherosclerosis can lead to raised blood pressure, heart attacks and strokes. One of the major factors in atherosclerosis is high levels of cholesterol carried in low density lipoproteins. These proteins can be absorbed where they will cause the formation of a special kind of cell called a foam cell.

  1. Identification

    • Foam cells are cells that are derived from macrophages. Macrophages are special cells involved in the immune system that can also pick up debris and other extracellular components.

    Foam Cell Formation

    • Foam cells are created when a macrophage absorbs a low density lipoprotein (LDL) molecule, a type of protein which is used to transport cholesterol.

    Nomenclature

    • Foam cells are named because the absorption of the LDL creates large lipid-filled areas within the cell, making them appear "foamy" under a microscope.

    Location

    • Foam cells are typically found in the periphery of blood cells, especially in large blood vessels such as arteries.

    Signficance

    • Foam cells can accumulate in a pocket where they can form the base for an atherosclerotic plaque, which can lead to hardening of the arteries and possible blockage.

Related Searches:

References

You May Also Like

  • How to Grow Cells on Polyurethane Foam

    Polyurethane foam comes in a few different options: closed cell, open cell or a mixture to the two. The closed cell foam...

  • Closed Cell Vs. Open Cell Foam Insulation

    Polyurethane foam is a product made from long chains of inorganic materials known as polymers. When combined with other chemicals, polyurethane is...

  • DIY Closed-Cell Foam Insulation

    Currently, DIY closed-cell insulation is one of the best systems available for reducing heat loss in residential and commercial buildings. When foam...

  • Cell Foam Vs. Closed Cell Foam

    Foam structures consist of a solid material that is filled with voids, or bubbles. Foams are used for a variety of insulation...

  • Neoprene Foam Characteristics

    Neoprene is a closed-cell foam. This means that the foam is made out of many microscopic cells that have no opening and...

  • Perfusion Technique

    The perfusion technique provides rapid and uniform fixation to all individual cells present in tissue. A 4 percent paraformaldehyde fixative is passed...

  • How to Cut Closed Cell Foam

    Using closed cell foam is a terrific way to protect your tools or protect and display your collectibles and holiday ornaments. Imagine...

  • How to Increase Red Blood Cell Count Naturally for Endurance Sports

    Athletes find it desirable to raise blood count to improve endurance performance. Specifically, they want a higher concentration of red blood cells...

  • Open Cell Vs. Closed Cell Spray Foam

    Closed cell and open cell are two different types of spray foam insulation used by contractors to insulate buildings from heat and...

  • How to Make Plant & Animal Cells

    Fix the clay pieces to the foam ball with spray adhesive. Place the red ball in the middle of the orange cell...

  • Earphone Tips

    You can customize your earphones with viscoelastic polyurethane tips. These foam tips, which are up to 30 times softer than silicone rubber...

  • Carotid Artery Procedures

    The carotid arteries are the two major arteries that carry oxygenated blood to the head. Those at risk for cardiovascular disease are...

  • Impact Absorption of Foam Rubber Vs. Polystyrene Foam

    Comments. You May Also Like. Mechanical Properties of Polyurethane Foam. Polyurethane foam can also be used in a closed-cell, pourable form. This...

  • How to Glue Closed Cell Foam

    From upholstery to costume construction, closed cell foam has many uses. Its flexible nature and insulating properties make it useful in virtually...

  • What Is a Human Cell Microstructure?

    Microstructure is structural detail that only a microscope can reveal. In the human cell, the light and electron microscope reveal a bustling...

  • How to Pick the Right Memory Foam Mattress

    When you're in the market for a new mattress, you might be overwhelmed with the number of options available in the market...

  • Cellulose vs. Spray Foam Insulation

    Insulation is a key component in the thermal protection of a home. While fiberglass is the most prevalent variety of insulation, you...

  • Types of Closed Cell Foam

    Types of Closed Cell Foam. Foam is formed by gas bubbles trapped in a solid or liquid. Two general types of foam...

  • How to Make a Plant Cell Model Using a Box

    The world of biology offers students an opportunity to learn about everything living on Earth, from the largest whale to the smallest...

Related Ads

thumbnail
Featured